Carlos Alcaraz believes Novak Djokovic's motivation makes him a favorite to win the 2025 Australian Open title

Despite not winning a Grand Slam title in 2024, Novak Djokovic is still the favorite to lift the Australian Open title in January next year, according to rival Carlos Alcaraz.

Although Djokovic won his first singles Olympic gold medal at the Paris Olympic Games this summer, the 37-year old failed to lift a Major title this year after winning three in 2023. Djokovic reached the final at Wimbledon, but fell to an in-form Carlos Alcaraz in straight sets.

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Djokovic's hunger will make him a threat in Australia, says Alcaraz

Earlier this season, the Serbian announced he would be skipping smaller tournaments and focusing solely on adding Grand Slam titles to his already impressive tally. Djokovic has a record 24 Grand Slam singles titles to his name, and his current form indicates he still believes he can win a few more before ending his career.

During a media conference at the ongoing ATP Finals, Alcaraz was asked about Djokovic's chances of lifting an 11th title at the Australian Open in Melbourne next year.

"A question about Novak, who obviously hasn't been here. He's home resting. He's going to go to Australia, where he's won so many times. What do you think we're going to see from Novak in Australia?" asked a reporter.

“A really dangerous player," responded Alcaraz. "I mean, he deserves to choose what tournaments he's going to play. We've seen before that it doesn't matter that he doesn't play an official match for two, three, four months because he's going to come again and be able to win the tournament, be able to show a really high level of tennis.
"So in Australian Open, it depends on how hungry he is. If he goes to Australia with hunger, he is going to be one of the favorites to win Australia. Let's see.
"He's going to be fresh, for sure. A lot of time with his family, kids, wife. Have time to practice a lot, which is pretty good for a tennis player coming to a tournament with motivations. He’s going to be a fun player to watch, for sure."

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